Legendary footballer Thierry Henry will be awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s BBC Sports Personality of the Year awards in Salford, in recognition of his extraordinary contributions to the world of sport and his impact both on and off the football pitch.
BBC Sports Personality of the Year, the iconic celebration of sporting excellence is hosted by Clare Balding, Gabby Logan and Alex Scott and will be live on BBC One and BBC iPlayer from 7pm to 9pm on Thursday, 18 December 2025.
Widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time, Henry’s career spanned over two decades, during which time he became Arsenal and France’s record goalscorer and lifted both the 1998 World Cup and the European Championship in 2000. He redefined the striker role with his blend of prolific goalscoring, pace and flair, inspiring generations of players and fans alike.
Having started his career at Monaco, a brief spell at Juventus followed before fellow Frenchman Arsene Wenger brought him to Arsenal in 1999 and converted him from a winger into a striker. The goals and trophies swiftly followed as he helped the Gunners win two Premier League titles and three FA Cups. He also claimed four Premier League Golden Boot awards and just over six years after arriving in North London he surpassed Ian Wright to become the club’s all-time record scorer.
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After leaving Arsenal he added a host more trophies with Barcelona, including the Champions League, before ending his career at the New York Red Bulls. He was equally prolific at international level and became France’s then all-time leading scorer, finishing his career with 51 goals in 123 caps.
Beyond his playing career, Thierry Henry has continued to shape the sport as a coach, pundit, and ambassador. He has mentored young talent, advocated for diversity in football and championed social causes, cementing his reputation as not only a sporting icon but also a role model for future generations.
Henry said: “Football has given me everything and I gave it my all. To be recognised as part of its history with this Lifetime Achievement award and to have made my mark for the fans and my teammates is something I’ll never take for granted.”
Alex Kay-Jelski, director of BBC Sport, added: “Thierry Henry redefined what it meant to be a modern footballer. From his artistry and intelligence in the Premier League to his impact on the global stage, his brilliance combined elegance with ruthless excellence. Thierry inspired generations of players and fans through his creativity, leadership and unmistakable love for the game. His influence extends far beyond his goals, shaping football culture and the way the sport is played and understood today. His legacy as one of the greatest footballers of all time makes him a truly deserving winner of the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Lifetime Achievement award.”
The BBC Sports Personality of the Year Lifetime Achievement Award celebrates individuals whose careers have left an indelible mark on sport, and Thierry Henry joins a distinguished list of past winners including Billie Jean King, Pele, Sir Bobby Charlton, David Beckham, Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, Sir Chris Hoy, Usain Bolt and Sir Kenny Dalglish. Last year’s winner was Sir Mark Cavendish.
For more information on the BBC Sports Personality Awards, including voting criteria for audience awards, visit BBC Sports Personality.
